2016

iGMA TV

GMA7 Kapuso

< Back to GMA >

Bubble Gang pays tribute to Philippine comedy icons

Philippine TV’s longest-running comedy show, Bubble Gang, celebrates its 21^st anniversary this year. Indeed, the laughter never stops for them.

The show remains to be a favorite among viewers for its unique, amusing and extraordinary parodies, sketches and gags.

Kapuso comedy genius and Bubble Gang’s Creative Director Michael V. shares that consider their audience as their motivation and inspiration.

#LIKE

Tagisan ng Internet Sensations

GMA’s newest talent reality competition pilots on September 11

You've seen them on your social media feeds—the new breed of online celebrities worth millions in views, comments, shares and likes! You followed their hip dance craze—and admit it, probably attempted a video of your own—and laughed at their witty memes.

Dennis Trillo wins big in Seoul International Drama Awards

Drama King Dennis Trillo bagged the Asian Star Prize in Seoul International Drama Awards in South Korea. The award recognizes and rewards Asian talent widely beloved by the Korean audience. To date, Dennis is the first ever Filipino actor to receive the said award.

In his acceptance speech, the Kapuso actor thanked the award-giving body for the honor and recognition. He also dedicated his award to GMA Network, his family, loved ones, and to all Filipinos.

Megan Young dazzles in Pinoy Fiesta Vancouver 2016

Kapuso star and 2013 Miss World Megan Young was a huge crowd-drawer at the Pinoy Fiesta Vancouver held last August 16 at the Memorial South Park in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Edu Manzano’s TV comeback in GMA’s Someone to Watch Over Me

Jackie Lou Blanco, Edu Manzano, Lovi Poe and Tom Rodriguez comprise the cast of Someone to Watch Over Me

He may not have been as visible on television these past few years but seasoned actor Edu Manzano admits that he cannot totally leave the industry for all that it has bestowed to him in life.

Will Mulawin fly again?

Miguel Tanfelix as Pagaspas (photo from GMA Network’s Instagram account)

The internet has been abuzz over recent exciting rumors that Mulawin, GMA Network’s iconic fantasy series launched in 2004, is making a comeback.

Over the past few days, GMA’s Instagram account featured teaser images of a familiar winged humanoid, alluding to the possibility of Mulawin’s reappearance on television screens.

Rumors were laid to rest as it was announced that Kapuso teen star Miguel Tanfelix will reprise his role as Pagaspas from Mulawin in the grand retelling of Encantadia, another well-loved Kapuso fantasy series set in the same fantasy realm, currently airing worldwide on GMA Pinoy TV.

Kapuso star Heart Evangelista-Escudero has practically grown up in the spotlight, with viewers witnessing her transformation from playing teenage roles to more mature characters, such as in the sexy comedy series Juan Happy Love Story, wherein she stars opposite Kapuso Drama King Dennis Trillo.

But in recent years, Heart has also displayed a different facet of her persona – that of a visual artist – as evidenced by a series of successful solo painting exhibits both in and out of the country.

At 24 years old, the highly popular, albeit still very humble, Pambansang Bae Alden Richards continues to surprise people – this time with a narrative of his life experiences.

Following the success of his music album, Wish I May, which reached seven-time Platinum status, and the box office success of Imagine You & Me, his movie with on-screen partner Maine Mendoza, the book is another tribute from Alden to his scores of supporters.

GMA Network dominates Urban Luzon TV ratings

More Kapuso shows enter nationwide and Urban Luzon top programs lists

GMA Network (GMA) opened the second half of the year on a positive note as it continued to prevail over competition in viewer-rich Urban Luzon last July, based on data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement, the industry’s trusted ratings service provider.

From July 1 to 31 (with the dates of July 24 to 31 based on overnight readings), GMA’s average household audience share in Urban Luzon reached 39.7 percent, higher than ABS-CBN’s 32.5 percent by 7.2 points, and TV5’s 6.8 percent by 32.9 points.

GMA led across all dayparts, including primetime, in Urban Luzon, which accounts for 77 percent of the total urban TV household population in the country.

Kapuso shows also dominated the list of top-rating programs not only for Urban Luzon but for National Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM) as well.

The much-awaited return of the fantasy series Encantadia, which is easily the Network’s biggest offering so far for the year, ranked highest among all Kapuso shows in NUTAM and Urban Luzon.

It was closely followed by 24 Oras, Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS), Pepito Manaloto, Magpakailanman, newly launched Koreanovela Descendants of the Sun, 24 Oras Weekend, Ismol Family, Poor Señorita, and Eat Bulaga.

Hay Bahay!, Once Again, Hanggang Makita Kang Muli, Sunday PinaSaya, Wowowin, and Imbestigadorwere also part of both the NUTAM and Urban Luzon lists.

Other top-rating Kapuso programs for the month were Lip Sync Battle Philippines, Juan Happy Love Story, Del Monte Kitchenomics, Magkaibang Mundo, and Karelasyon.

Moreover, while change has come with the first president from Mindanao taking office, Filipinos’ trust on GMA Network remains steadfast with GMA News’ “Du30: Unang SONA” special coverage emerging as the viewers’ top choice during Duterte’s first-ever State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 25.

Based on Nielsen data, “DU30: Unang SONA” garnered a 38 percent audience share among urban homes across the country versus ABS-CBN’s Pangako sa Pagbabago SONA 2016’s 37.8 percent. The Kapuso Network’s special coverage was also ahead in Urban Luzon, leading rival by 12.3 household share points.

Nielsen data is gathered through a greater number of sampled homes nationwide in comparison to Kantar Media. Nielsen has a nationwide sample size of 3,500 urban and rural homes, bigger than Kantar’s sample size of 2,610.

As the leading ratings service provider, Nielsen TV Audience Measurement service boasts a total of 31 clients/subscribers including 8 local TV networks, 4 regional clients, 2 blocktimers, and 17 media agencies.

GMA subscribes to Nielsen along with TV5 and Aksyon TV, CNN Philippines, Net 25, Ebiquity-Faulkner CBN Asia and TAPE Inc., and major advertising and media agencies such as Dentsu Aegis Network (Carat, Mediaforce Vizeum, Dentsu), GroupM (Mediacom, Mindshare, MEC and Maxus), Omnicom Media Group (OMD, PHD and M2M), Zenith Optimedia, and Starcom Mediavest. (30)

Tom Rodriguez loses memory, Lovi Poe encounters another heartbreak

Forgetting and being forgotten are two very difficult situations to be in.

And in Someone to Watch Over Me, the latest drama series airing this August on GMA Pinoy TV, we get to see both sides as Kapuso hunk Tom Rodriguez tackles the role of TJ Chavez, a man who has Alzheimer’s disease, while Kapuso Premier Actress Lovi Poe takes on the role of his wife Joanna Mercado.

Due to Alzheimer’s, TJ slowly forgets about Joanna, remembering only his previous girlfriend.

(Click 4 More ...)

Encantadia becomes top trending topic worldwide

For Encantadia fans all over the world, the pilot episode of the Kapuso series’ present-day version, which premiered worldwide on GMA Pinoy TV last July 18, was worth the 11-year wait.

Even prior to its pilot telecast, Encantadiks (as how fans of the show refer to themselves) have been expressing their excitement on social media to witness the beginning of the Kapuso Network’s retelling of one of its biggest and more successful fantasy series.

(Click 4 More ...)

Rhian Ramos bares it all

Kapuso star Rhian Ramos, with her striking looks, statuesque frame, and talent, has been turning heads ever since her entry into show business.

And after stunning readers as the latest cover girl of FHM Philippines for July, it’s about time Rhian bared it all – ‘it’ being her acting prowess, of course.

Rhian is set to return to the small screen for GMA Network’s television adaptation of the 1992 blockbuster movie, Sinungaling Mong Puso, which begins airing worldwide on July 18 through GMA’s flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV.

(Click 4 More ...)

A worldwide fiesta with GMA Pinoy TV

Kapuso Network’s brightest stars celebrate Philippine culture with global Pinoys

Thousands of Filipinos overseas felt right at home as GMA Pinoy TV kicked off a month-long celebration of the 118^th Philippine Independence Day in Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, the United States of America, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Bannered by some of GMA’s brightest stars, the series of events was as vibrant and colorful as our nation’s history, and exuded a truly festive Filipino atmosphere – full of entertainment, laughter, food, and a sense of community. GMA Pinoy TV, along with GMA’s other international channels GMA Life TV and GMA News TV International, served as exclusive media sponsors of the events abroad.

(Click 4 More ...)

Heart Evangelista-Escudero joins ranks of Hollywood stars with rare Birkin handbag

For Philippine TV’s Sweetheart Heart Evangelista-Escudero, style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.

Identified as one of Philippines’ fashion icons, Heart admits that aside from her sophisticated love for whites, she is a lover of designer bags, particularly that of Hermes Birkins and Kellys. (Click 4 More ...)

GMA Network launches trailblazing programs on its 66^th anniversary

The Kapuso Network continues to chart new grounds in 2016 as it celebrates its 66^th anniversary this June with a line-up of game-changing programs premiering on its flagship international channel,GMA Pinoy TV.

GMA opens the month with A1 Ko Sa ’Yo!, a sexy comedy featuring 2016 Cannes Film Festival Best Actress Jaclyn Jose as Digna Molina. Joining her are Gardo Versoza, Sef Cadayona, Benjamin Alves, Roi Vinzon, Ervic Vijandre, Denise Barbacena, Gee Canlas, Mara Alberto and Solenn Heussaff. Under the helm of Randy Santiago, catch this all-original naughty comedy as it exudes wit and humor beginning June 4.

Airing June 28, the intriguing series Sa Piling ni Nanay features the reunion of StarStruck Season 1 alumni Mark Herras, Yasmien Kurdi and Katrina Halili. Sa Piling ni Nanay tells the story of a surrogate mother and her selfless love for her daughter. Also in the cast are Nova Villa, Bettinna Carlos, Antonio Aquitania, Sofia Jayzel Cabatay. This series is under the helm of Gil Tejada, Jr.

Set to bring Kapuso viewers a funny twist to an extraordinary story of family, love and life is the new comedy series Hay, Bahay! bannered by 47th Guillermo Mendoza Memorial Scholarship Foundation (GMMSF) Box Office King and Queen Bossing Vic Sotto and Ms. Aiai delas Alas, the program shows the daily life and misadventures of a typical extended Filipino family. Joining Vic and Ai Ai are real-life celebrity couple Kristine Hermosa and Oyo Boy Sotto, ace comedians Jose Manalo, Wally Bayolaand Ruby Rodriguez. The series, premiering this June, is directed by Ms. Bibeth Orteza.

The upcoming comedy series Conan My Beautician, meanwhile, is expected to showcase the versatility and talent of Kapuso actor Mark Herras and 2013 Ms. World Megan Young. Mark plays the role of Conan, a straight guy who is forced to work in a beauty salon. Things get more complicated when he meets Ava, played by Megan Young, the bride he was supposed to work on in a makeup gig where he falls in love. Completing the stellar cast are today's most talented comedians: Cacai Bautista, Jerald Napoles, Betong Sumaya, Boobsie, Tetay, Vangie Labalan, Lotlot De Leon, Jay Manalo, Chlaui Malayao, Antonette Garcia, and Balang. Directed by Adolf Alix, Jr. with Rember Gelera, and penned by award-winning writers headed by Rody Vera and Zig Dulay, the GMA News and Public Affairs begins airing in July.

Viewers should also watch out for the premiere of the highly-anticipated retelling of Encantadia. Bagging the much-coveted roles of the four Sang’gres—Amihan, Alena, Danaya and Pirena—are Kylie Padilla, Gabbi Garcia, Sanya Lopez and Glaiza de Castro. Playing very special roles are Primetime King and Queen Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera-Dantes as Raquim and Ynang Reyna Minea. Joining the stellar cast are John Arcilla, Rocco Nacino, Ruru Madrid, Sunshine Dizon,Christian Bautista, Rochelle Pangilinan, Vaness del Moral, Pancho Magno, Buboy Villar, Carlo Gonzalez, Kate Valdez, Mikee Quintos, Starstruck finalist James Teng, introducing Starstruck winners Klea Pineda and Migo Adecer, and Solenn Heussaff. This highly-acclaimed saga, which is under the helm of Mark Reyes, tells the story of sisterhood, of family, and of great forbidden love that bridges two different worlds, the mortal world and the magical kingdom of Encantadia.

Meanwhile, Asia’s Pop Sweetheart Julie Anne San Jose is tapped to perform the anniversary theme song ‘Buhos ng PaGMAmahal’. The jingle, which is written by Jon Fulgencio and composed by Simon Peter Tan, teases the viewers about the anniversary offerings of the Network. (30)

AlDub thrills in ‘Imagine You and Me’ trailer

The phenomenal Kalyeserye love team of Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza is celebrating their first anniversary in a big way as they thrill moviegoers in the much-awaited romantic film “Imagine You and Me” under GMA Films and APT Entertainment.

After first setting eyes on each other on a split screen during Eat Bulaga’s Juan for All, All for Juan segment, the pair has attracted millions of followers who have been long hoping for the love team to transition from reel to real. (Continue)

Rhian Ramos leads cast of GMA’s Sinungaling Mong Puso

Kapuso actress Rhian Ramos returns to drama as she breathes new life to the character of Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos in the TV adaptation of the 1992 film Sinungaling Mong Puso.

The new Kapuso offering will air this July on GMA as part of the Network’s top-rating afternoon block, and worldwide on its flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV. (Continue)

Encantadia Sang’gres suit up for battle

As the fate of Encantadia rests in the hands of four ethereal beauties guarding the elemental gems of fire, air, water and earth, this year’s biggest television protagonists – the Sang’gres Pirena, Amihan, Alena and Danaya– have donned their warrior gear, ready to defend their realm. (Continue)

Kristine Hermosa returns to TV to tickle funny bones on Hay, Bahay!

Kristine Hermosa, one of the industry’s best dramatic actresses, is making a TV comeback after taking time off to attend to her growing family.

But this time, Kristine finds herself doing comedy as she joins the wacky cast of GMA Network’s newest sitcom, Hay, Bahay!, topbilled by Philippine showbiz’ biggest names in comedy Vic Sotto and Ai Ai delas Alas.

(Continue)

Good Morning America features Kapuso teen star Miguel Tanfelix

Kapuso teen actor Miguel Tanfelix has caught the attention of ABC News’ Good Morning America because of his videos on the mobile app Musical.ly.

Good Morning America launched a segment called Musical.ly Challenge Contest, wherein residents of the United States can win a chance to meet international pop star Demi Lovato by doing the video challenges announced on the show. (continue)

GMA NETWORK ONLY LOCAL NETWORK TO WIN

AT THE 2016 US INTERNATIONAL FILM & VIDEO FESTIVAL

GMA Network gives honor to the country anew as it brings home four medals and seven certificates at the 2016 US International Film & Video Festival for its various News and Public Affairs and Entertainment programs—the only Philippine TV network to win in this year’s festival.

Leading the list of winners this year were Alamat and Reel Time, which were both Best of Festivals nominees and Gold Camera awardees.

The first-ever Pinoy animated anthology series Alamat earned the Gold Camera Award in the Entertainment: Children category for its “Alamat ng Bayabas (The Legend of the Guava)” episode. The groundbreaking show marks the first time the network ventured into a full animation series. The series, which began airing last year, features Philippine myths and legends with each episode voiced by various Kapuso personalities. It is currently on its second season.

GMA News TV’s documentary program Reel Time, meanwhile, received the Gold Camera Award for its episode “Isang Paa sa Hukay (The Price of Gold)” in the Public Affairs Programs category. It documented the small-scale mining in Camarines Norte, where children dive into narrow shafts using air compressor to support their breathing, just to mine very little pieces of gold.

This already serves as the third international citation for Reel Time’s “Isang Paa sa Hukay”documentary this year. It was named as Best Program on “Promoting Children’s Rights” under the Humanity category at the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD)’s World Television Awards. It also took home the bronze award in the Human Concerns category at the recent New York Festivals.

GMA’s top-notch documentary program I-Witness was conferred the Silver Screen Award for its “Kawayang Pangarap (Bamboo Dreams)” episode in the Documentary Programs: Biography category. Kara David followed an Aeta family's everyday toil of hauling bamboos just to have all children finish their education.

Investigative public affairs program Reporter’s Notebook also won a Silver Screen Award in the Public Affairs category for its “Hikbi sa Ibayong Dagat (Far From Home)” episode. Maki Pulido andJiggy Manicad took a closer look at the ironic stories of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Hong Kong who continue to work despite having serious illnesses because going home means losing their jobs and facing the expensive cost of medical treatment in the Philippines.

GMA also took home seven certificates for its various News and Public Affairs and Entertainment TV programs.

Brigada (“Para sa Pangarap”), Front Row (“Maestra Salbabida”), and Investigative Documentaries (“Gutom”) each earned a Certificate for Creative Excellence in the Social Issues category. Karelasyon’s “Tres Rosas” and Wagas’ “Gabriela and Diego Silang Love Story” were given Certificates for Creative Excellence in the Docudrama category.

Meanwhile, GMA ETV programs “Pepito Manaloto” and “Idol sa Kusina” received Certificates for Creative Excellence in the Cooking and Comedy categories, respectively.

Since 1967, the US International Film & Video Festivals continues to recognize outstanding corporate, education, entertainment, documentary, and student productions. (30)

Benjamin Alves makes most of recent homecoming in Guam

Striking work-life balance, Kapuso actor Benjamin Alves took a well-deserved vacation in Guam to spend quality time with his family before working on his latest project with his home network, GMA.

Benjamin spent most of his growing-up years in Guam, where his entire family is based.

His excitement to be home was evident on his Instagram account as he shared photos and videos of him and his relatives. In one particular video, the Kapuso star can be seen playing basketball in an arcade with his nephew, Noah. “Hoopin with Noah. Couldn’t help but join in,” he happily shared.

Julie Anne San Jose set to graduate from college this May

Julie Anne San Jose is among the few young celebrities today who have managed to pursue an education while keeping a laudable showbiz career.

Her efforts were recently rewarded as she made it to the Dean’s List of her school, Angelicum Collge, where she is taking up Communication Arts.

Janine Gutierrez approves of mom Lotlot de Leon’s lovelife

Like any other daughter, Janine Gutierrez can be protective when it comes to her mom Lotlot de Leon’s lovelife.

“Nung nagka-boyfriend si mama, syempre may bagong tao sa buhay namin, ‘tsaka syempre protective kami sa kanya [When mama first had a boyfriend, naturally there was someone new in our lives. We were protective of her, of course],” she says.

The lovely Kapuso actress also admits to feeling jealous in the beginning,”Nung una talagang nagseselos kami. Nasanay ako na kami kami lang talaga 'yung magkakasama” [We were jealous at first. I’ve gotten used to spending time with just her and my siblings].

Kapuso star Jaclyn Jose is first Filipina Best Actress at Cannes Film Festival

Filipinos all over the world celebrated with Kapuso star Jaclyn Jose as she became the first Filipina to win the Best Actress Award at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.

Jaclyn bested other nominees, including internationally-acclaimed actresses Charlize Theron and Marion Cotillard, for her portrayal of an impoverished mother forced to sell drugs in the film Ma’Rosa by the critically-acclaimed director Brillante Mendoza.

No love is too small in GMA’s Magkaibang Mundo

They say height shouldn’t matter in a relationship, but what if that person can fit in the palm of your hand?

Proving that no love is too small, GMA Network’s upcoming series, Magkaibang Mundo follows the unique friendship that soon blossoms into love between a human and a dwarf.

Happier weekends with GMA’s comedy game show ‘Laff, Camera, Action!’

GMA Network never fails to feast the eyes of every Kapuso with amusing and innovative concepts.

Following the phenomenal success of Celebrity Bluff and Picture! Picture!, get ready to laugh out loud every Saturday afternoon as it brings to Filipino homes the newest comedy game show Laff, Camera, Action!

Set to premiere on May 28, this weekly improvisational program showcases unscripted and unrehearsed performances from two groups of three performers each featuring comedic talents from television, stage, comedy bars, and even schools and universities.

Snooky Serna enjoys doing comedy

Award-winning thespian Snooky Serna has learned to embrace her character, the sneaky and arrogant Deborah, in the Kapuso Network’s weeknight drama, Poor Señorita.

“Noong una, parang naiilang ako kasi hindi ko forte ang comedy. Pero noong bandang huli, ay okay na [I wasn’t that comfortable at first because comedy is not my forte. But it turned out well in the end],” admits the veteran actress, who starred in numerous blockbuster hits in the 80’s.

She was pleasantly surprised to be enjoying comedy as seen in her effective performance.

Heart Evangelista, nervous about doing a sexy, naughty rom-com

After spending months on the campaign trail, Heart Evangelista is now looking forward to the launch of her upcoming show Juan Happy Love Story on GMA.

GMA Network offers a sexy and naughty primetime series in JUAN HAPPY LOVE STORY

Beginning May 16, witness the comeback two of the country’s FITSPOs (fit inspirations)—Kapuso Network’s Drama King Dennis Trillo and Philippine TV’s Sweetheart Heart Evangelista—in an exceptionally hot and sexy series in Juan Happy Love Story premiering on GMA’s flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV.

Solenn Heussaff counts down the days to her big day

With barely a month before her wedding, Kapuso star Solenn Heussaff is as anxious as she is excited for the big day.

She is set to marry her long-time boyfriend, Nico Bolzico, an Argentinian businessman, in a rustic-themed ceremony in France.

“I’m just a bit stressed in a way that it’s abroad, so I know I’m going to have to do a lot of last minute things there,” shares the French-Filipina actress.

Netizens raring to see Regine Velasquez-Alcasid in concert

Fans of Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid from around the world have been abuzz over her upcoming show Timeless: The USA Concert Tour 2016 this May.

As the Kapuso star readies herself for a series of back-to-back concerts in Chicago, New Jersey, San Diego and Pasadena, her kababayan in the US have already been lining up to get tickets for the much-awaited show.

Regine’s Instagram account (@reginevalcasid) is full of well-wishes and excitement from her followers who are anticipating a truly entertaining performance from one of the Philippines’ greatest voices.

GMA Worldwide celebrates 20^th year in the business with new milestones

GMA Worldwide, Inc. (GWI), a wholly owned subsidiary of GMA Network, is celebrating its 20^th anniversary, marking two decades of showcasing GMA programs to the ASEAN region and beyond.

GWI is off to a rousing start this year as it scored another victory with its sale of two top-rated Kapuso programs, Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real and My Destiny’s program formats to a Mexican production company, Altavision Producciones, following its groundbreaking sale of Munting Heredera’s rights to Telefilm Atlantico.

“All the popular telenovelas that aired in the Philippines were produced in Mexico,” explains Roxanne J. Barcelona, Vice President of GWI and an expert in program acquisition and syndication. “It makes us proud knowing that viewers in that part of the world will finally get to watch some of our very own productions.”

With 20 years of being in the content distribution and syndication business, GWI has become a force to reckon with in the international content market, creating new and exciting opportunities for GMA programs and artists.

GWI recently concluded another successful exhibition at the prestigious MIPTV, the world’s most established TV and digital content market and the largest gathering of entertainment industry professionals held yearly in Cannes.

This year’s MIPTV attracted nearly 11,000 delegates representing 100 countries, 1,620 production companies, 4,000 buyers, and 1,700 exhibiting companies including GWI.

For this event, ongoing Kapuso programs Because of You, Hanggang Makita Kang Muli, The Millionaire’s Wife, Poor Señorita, and particularly Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real and My Destiny captured the attention of foreign buyers.

In 2015, GWI sold a total of 4,003 program hours to other countries such as Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, Myanmar, Nigeria, Hawaii, Kenya and Zambia, significantly increasing its annual sales by 34 percent.

Truly at the top of its game, GWI is committed to bringing GMA’s content to more territories around the world, while further strengthening its presence in areas where the Kapuso brand continues to thrive. (30)

Photos:

A Mexican adaptation of Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real, which starred Dingdong Dantes, Lovi Poe, and Ms Maricel Soriano, will soon reach viewers in Latin America thru GWI

My Destiny joins Munting Heredera and ADMR in the list of Kapuso dramas to be localized in Mexico

GMA Worldwide Vice President Roxanne J. Barcelona in GWI's booth at the recent Hong Kong Filmart

GMA Network Brings Home 4 New York Fest Medals

Kara David among this year’s award presenters

GMA’s New York Fest medals were accepted by Senior Program Manager Angeli Atienza,

News and Public Affairs' First Vice President Nessa Valdellon and multi-awarded I-Witness host and writer Kara David.

GMA Network proudly took home 4 world medals and 5 finalist certificates at the 2016 New York Festivals, which also had Kapuso broadcast journalist Kara David as one of the award presenters at the awards ceremony held in Las Vegas April 19. GMA was the only Philippine company with medal winners this year.

The network's News and Public Affairs Group was responsible for the 4 medalists in various categories.

I-Witness, the country's longest running documentary program, won the bronze medal in the Community Portraits category for "Dorm 12", where David featured aging and forgotten inmates at the Correctional Institute for Women.

Investigative news magazine Reporter’s Notebook won a bronze award in the Social Issues category for tackling urban migration in its "Hikahos sa Lungsod" episode, reported by Maki Pulido.

Front Row’s “Maestra Salbabida” took home a bronze in the Community Service Programs category, depicting a teacher in Mindoro who crosses rivers using a makeshift floating device to reach the barrio where she teaches.

GMA News TV’s Reel Time, on the other hand, earned the bronze award inthe Human Concerns category for its “Isang Paa sa Hukay” documentary on small-scale mining operations in Camarines Norte.

David, meanwhile, was the only media professional from Asia named as one of this year’s award presenters, which include prominent international media executives, talk show hosts and content creators.

On the other hand, three GMA News and Public Affairs programs received finalist certificates: Philippine TV’s first-ever bayaniserye Ilustrado, Bawal ang Pasaway kay Mareng Winnie and Brigada while two projects from the network's Program Support Department were also shortlisted: Ilustrado’s opening billboard and GMA News TV's Father’s Day plug. (30)

Aljur Abrenica's career on full swing again

Aljur Abrenica is definitely back and very much visible onscreen - with an upcoming show on primetime TV no less.

In his new show with the Kapuso Network called Once Again, the Kapuso actor is reunited with Janine Gutierrez, daughter of actors Ramon Christopher and Lotlot de Leon. The two worked together last year in the GMA daytime series, Dangwa.

Dingdong and Marian’s baby girl, now a certified endorser

Photo credits: Dingdong Dantes’ Instagram account (@dongdantes)

At a very young age, Baby Zia, daughter of Kapuso primetime King and Queen Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera, is already following in the footsteps of her celebrity parents.

Regine Velasquez brings ‘Timeless’ concert to the US

It seems like Regine Velasquez-Alcasid has no plans of slowing down this year.

After her successful primetime TV comeback via GMA-7’s “Poor Señorita,” the Asia’s Songbird is now gearing up for a series of shows in the US this May.

GMA Pinoy TV’s “Home Away from Home” is lone Philippine nominee at 2016 NAMIC Vision Awards

GMA’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV is the only channel with all-Filipino programming nominated at the US-based 22^nd National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC) Vision Awards, as its multi-awarded original documentary series “Home Away from Home” earns a nod in the Lifestyle category.

Brighter beginnings for the youth with GMA Kapuso Foundation and Max’s Restaurants

GMA Network’s socio-civic arm, GMA Kapuso Foundation, recently received a donation from the international division of the country’s largest casual dining operator, Max’s Group, Inc. (MGI), which operates Max’s Restaurants across the globe.

As part of the brand’s 70^th anniversary celebration, 14 Max’s Restaurants in North America pledged to donate a dollar for every whole order of Max’s fried chicken. Through the endeavour, they were able to raise US$4,580 for the benefit of GMAKF’s Kapuso School Development (KSD), Unang Hakbang Sa Kinabukasan (UHSK), and Give A Gift (GAG): Feed A Child projects.

Pacquiao-Bradley III tops nationwide ratings

Pacquiao fans across the country were still as enthusiastic as ever when Filipino boxing hero Manny Pacquiao faced off with American boxer Timothy Bradley for the third time last Saturday, April 9 (Sunday, April 10 in Manila).

The Pambansang Kamao, as he is known among Pinoys all over the world, decisively claimed his second win against Bradley and the last of his many victories throughout his phenomenal boxing career.

GMA Pinoy TV thrills with a star-studded month of March

GMA’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV continues to bring Filipinos abroad closer to home as it staged a series of star-studded events across North America and the Middle East throughout the month of March.

GMA Pinoy TV’s first stop was in the United Arab Emirates for Kapusong Pinoy Dubai featuring Pambansang Bae Alden Richards, amazing actor-comedian Betong Sumaya and Rock ‘N Soul Diva Aicelle Santos at Al Nasr Leisureland last March 10.

More exciting ‘Encantadia’ retelling in the works

The four Sang’gres will be portrayed by Kapuso stars (L-R) Sanya Lopez as Danaya, Gabbi Garcia as Alena,

Kylie Padilla as Amihan, and Glaiza de Castro as Pirena. (Photo by GMANetwork.com)

Four Kapuso actresses have emerged successful in the rigorous auditions for GMA Network’s retelling of the hit fantasy series Encantadia this 2016.

In a much-awaited grand announcement on 24 Oras last April 4, the highly-coveted roles of the four sisters, who are called Sang’gres or guardians of the elemental gems, went to GMA Artist Center stars Kylie Padilla, Gabbi Garcia, Sanya Lopez and Glaiza de Castro.

Alden Richards makes time for sister’s graduation

Alden Richards beams with pride as he shared a photo of him with his sister Riza taken at the latter’s college graduation.

The Pambansang Bae posted his selfie with Riza on Instagram with the caption “I’m proud of you.”

Heart Evangelista, ready to reconcile with Marian Rivera?

Heart Evangelista might have hinted at a possible reconciliation with Marian Rivera with whom she had a feud way back in 2011 while they were filming scenes for the remake of the movie Temptation Island.

At a recent pocket interview for her upcoming soap on GMA, Juan Happy Love Story, Heart confirmed that she’s ready to mend ties with people she had previous misunderstandings with.

“Yeah, naman! Kailangan lahat happy, happy ‘no? Ang hirap ng buhay, dapat happy na lang. You’ll never know when time's up, di ba? [Yes, of course. Life is difficult as it is so it’s better to just be happy. You’ll never know when time’s up, right?],” she revealed.

Maine Mendoza recounts 6-day “tampo” with Alden Richards

In a recent entry on her website, breakthrough artist Maine Mendoza admitted that she was disappointed when her Kalyeserye love team partner Alden Richards declined an invitation to her birthday celebration in the island of Boracay this March.

Extremely excited at the chance of being given a few days off for her special day, and this being her first visit to the popular vacation spot, Maine recalls that she had invited him two weeks before the scheduled trip and would ask him every day since then if he could make it.

Solenn Heussaff flies to Israel for dream wedding dress

When you find the right man, the next thing to do is to find the right dress.

And that’s exactly what Kapuso star Solenn Heussaff did as she recently flew to Tel Aviv, Israel to get her custom-made wedding dress from Lihi Hod Studio.

The French-Filipina actress and host will marry Argentine businessman Nico Bolzico in France later this year.

Celebrity couple Drew Arellano and Iya Villania

Celebrity couple Drew Arellano and Iya Villania shared the news of Iya’s pregnancy on their respective Instagram accounts on Easter Sunday.

Drew posted a picture of him and his wife with an Easter egg drawn on her belly with the caption “I found an EGG... and FERTILIZED it! Hahahahaha! Wohoooooooo! Happy Easter it is! #EGGspecting #EGGciting #ComingSoon.”

Kapuso Premier Actress Lovi Poe

Kapuso Premier Actress Lovi Poe certainly knows how to work hard for her dreams. Just recently, she celebrated a momentous occasion as she moved into her brand new home.

Lovi shared a photo of herself on Instagram holding the keys to her new residence with the caption, “Set goals and crush em!! Thank you God! Ikaw lahat ito! #Grateful #WithPassionOrNoneAtAll”

Marian Rivera’s postnatal body

Marian Rivera’s postnatal body showed no signs that she just gave birth to her and husband Dingdong Dantes’ first born barely four months ago.

While vacationing in Palawan with Dingdong and baby Maria Letizia during the Holy Week, the Kapuso Primetime Queen shared a photo of herself wearing a bikini on Instagram, where she has at least 2.5 million followers.

THE PHILIPPINE FEST CHICAGO AT NAVY PIER A SUCCESS FOR THE 5^TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

The 5^th Philippine Fest Chicago (Piyesta Pinoy sa Chicago), held last Sunday, 20 March 2016 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm at Navy Pier’s Crystal Gardens, was declared a success by organizers.

The afternoon event, presented by the Navy Pier in collaboration with the Consulate General of the Philippines and the Philippine American Cultural Foundation (PACF), involved active participation of the Filipino-American community in Illinois.

Consul General Generoso DG Calonge graced the opening ceremony and thanked all who came to the Crystal Gardens. He stated that Filipinos are a fun-loving people with lots of fiestas, and who are proud to be present in Navy Pier to show how proud they are of their culture and their heritage.

Various Filipino cultural groups took pride in featuring traditional songs, performances of Filipino cultural dances, display of colorful costumes, exhibit of handicrafts, home decors and accessories and even sampling of authentic Filipino cuisine. About 2,500 people attended the event. The support of the Filipino-Americans in Chicago on this occasion helped promote the Philippine’s rich cultural heritage to the mainstream American audience. END

Chicago, 22 March 2016

Consulate General of the Philippines

122 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 1600

Chicago, IL 60603

Tel.: 1(312) 583-0621

Fax: 1(312) 583-0647

Email: chicagopcg@att.net

Web: www.chicagopcg.com

Solenn Heussaff

Kapuso star Solenn Heussaff certainly has quite a few talents in her arsenal. Aside from her television stints, she is also a singer and a painter.

This 2016, Solenn is set to showcase her artistic mettle as her plans for an art exhibit have finally come to fruition.

Dennis Trillo and Heart Evangelista are excited for reunion project

Dennis Trillo and Heart Evangelista had their first taping day for their upcoming series on GMA Network, Juan Happy Love Story, where they portray a married couple.

Kapuso host Willie Revillame plans to bring Wowowin to other countries this year, as he revealed on his variety game show last March 15.

Willie hopes to reach out to his fellow Filipinos overseas as he joins GMA’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV in its aim to bring Filipinos abroad closer to home. “Sa ating mga Kapuso at kababayan dyan, kakatok kami sa mga tahanan at puso niyo para magbigay ng saya. ‘Yung mga hindi nakakauwi dito, kami ang lalapit sa inyo, at lalo [sa] mga dakilang OFWs natin.”

Marian Rivera only Filipino in top 20 list of most liked Facebook pages worldwide

Kapuso Primetime Queen Marian Rivera continues to make headlines after her Facebook page ranked 19^th in the most liked public figure Facebook pages worldwide according to social media analytics site Quintly.

Regine Velasquez-Alcasid returns to primetime in Poor Señorita

A light, romantic-comedy series is set to premiere on March 28 on GMA’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV as the Kapuso Network presents Poor Señorita.

Poor Señorita is the story of Rita Villon, played by none other than Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, an heiress and the successful owner of a perfume company. An obsessive-compulsive perfectionist, she is feared by all of her employees. She has never had a boyfriend and has no interest in men, but deep inside she longs for love and connection.

Kapuso dramas to air in Mexico and Canada

Viewers in Mexico and Canada are set to enjoy a premium selection of drama programs from the Kapuso Network.

This was made possible by GMA Worldwide, Inc. (GWI), a wholly owned subsidiary of GMA Network that syndicates its content to the international market.

A localized version of Munting Heredera (Little Heiress) will be produced by Mexican company Telefilm Atlantico S.A., who acquired the program’s format through GWI’s license agent in South America, Latin Media Corporation.

Considered as one of the Network’s most successful dramas, Munting Heredera, which tells of a grandmother’s search for her heiress, is the first GMA scripted drama to be produced in Latin America.

Meanwhile, major Canadian broadcasting company Rogers Media Inc. acquired a package of Kapuso titles in high definition that will air on their free TV channel. These include My Destiny, Second Chances (Another Chance), and Beautiful Strangers, among others.

“GMA Worldwide continues to be the company of choice for Filipino content,” says GWI Vice President Roxanne J. Barcelona. “Our presence in various territories proves that our content is relevant and favored not just among Filipino viewers but more importantly, among foreign viewers as well. We are fortunate to have steadily grown our market in Asia and Africa, and are looking forward to closing more deals in other territories,” she adds.

Barcelona also revealed that Papua New Guinea and Turkey have expressed interest in both GMA’s canned titles and drama formats. “In territories that do not have a tradition of acquiring foreign content or in countries where foreign content forms a very small percentage of the programming grid, we offer our drama formats which they can produce with their own local artists,” she says.

“Syndicating Filipino content internationally is not easy as there is much competition. However, the demand is steadily growing and this is why my team and I exert much effort to deliver only the best to all our clients,” Barcelona relates.

This year, GWI marks an important milestone as it celebrates its 20^th year in the industry.

Through GWI, GMA’s content has become widely available in most of Southeast Asia and in select countries in Africa such as Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, and Zambia. GMA’s programs are also sold in Hawaii and Canada and soon in Eastern Europe. (30)

DISCLAIMER: This Message may contain confidential information intended only for the use of the addressee named above. If you are not the intended recipient of this message you are hereby notified that any use, dissemination, distribution or reproduction of this message is prohibited. If you received this message in error please notify your Mail Administrator and delete this message immediately. Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender and may not necessarily reflect the views of GMA Network, Inc.

GMA Pinoy TV brings Kalyeserye Lolas with Barbie Forteza and Andre Paras to California this March

GMA’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV gears up for a highly entertaining and laughter-filled Kapuso experience as it brings Eat Bulaga’s popular Kalyeserye Lolas – Nidora (Wally Bayola), Tinidora (Jose Manalo) and Tidora (Paolo Ballesteros) – to California for a series of shows titled “The Lolas of Kalyeserye visit California!”

Joining JoWaPao - as Jose, Wally, and Paolo are collectively called - are the lead stars of the GMA primetime drama series That’s My Amboy, Kapuso Teen Queen Barbie Forteza and hunk matinee idol Andre Paras. Considered as one of the Network’s hottest love teams today, the pair dubbed as “AnBie” first caught the attention of viewers on the phenomenal drama The Half Sisters, GMA’s longest running daytime soap opera in the past decade, where they starred together for the first time.

Alden and Rocco heat up “Bae in the City Canada Tour 2016”

Kapuso heartthrobs Alden Richards and Rocco Nacino turn up the heat in

Canada as they headline “Bae in the City Canada Tour 2016” this March.

Alden, one of the most in demand actors in the country today and a co-host on GMA Network’s top-rating comedy-musical variety program Sunday PinaSaya and the Philippines’ longest-running noon time show Eat Bulaga, and Rocco, one of GMA’s top leading men who was last seen in the primetime drama series Beautiful Strangers, will be joined by comedian Kim Idol.

Eugene Domingo stars in DEAR UGE, Philippine TV’s first comedy anthology

GMA Network never fails to bring happier days to every Kapuso as it launches the first comedy anthology in the country with Dear Uge. It premieres internationally on February 15 via GMA’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV.

WBR Entertainment partners with GMA Network

WBR Entertainment recently signed a co-production agreement with GMA Network Inc. for Willie Revillame’s variety-game show Wowowin, which begins airing daily on February 1.

TAPE renews contract with GMA Network (EAT BULAGA)

TAPE Inc. and GMA Network Inc. signed yesterday, January 28, the renewal of their blocktime agreement at the GMA Network Center.

Present during the contact signing were GMA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Felipe L. Gozon, President and Chief Operating Officer Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong, TAPE Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer Antonio P. Tuviera, and Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Malou Choa-Fagar.

Mayor Rodrigo Duterte takes the hot seat on Wanted: President this Sunday

Dubbed “The Punisher” and Davao’s “Dirty Harry,” Mayor Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte does not mince words. He has been known to lace his speeches with expletives, and his controversial statements are often quoted in the headlines.

In Wanted: President this Sunday, February 7, the long-time mayor faces veteran anchor Mel Tiangco as she questions him about his alleged human rights’ abuses and the so-called Davao Death Squad. When Tiangco asks Duterte about how he intends to rid the country of drugs, crime and corruption in six months, Duterte replies, “It could be bloody.”

Wanted: President faces LP Presidentiable Mar Roxas

GMA News and Public Affairs’ election special Wanted: President continues to take a closer look at the candidates for presidency this Sunday as former DILG Secretary Mar Roxas accepts the challenge to face the country’s toughest job interview on January 31.

Kuya Germs, home for his last parade

A galaxy of the brightest and biggest stars, TV personalities and media executives gathered together last January 13 at GMA Network to pay their last respects to the Master Showman German "Kuya Germs" Moreno and honor his life of love, loyalty, and passion.

Hosted by Dingdong Dantes and Jean Garcia, the necrological service for Kuya Germs was overwhelming with memories and fondness for the beloved showbiz icon.

GMA’s “Wanted: President” scrutinizes 2016 presidential aspirants

It’s a series of job interviews every Filipino should not miss.

As the country gears for the upcoming Eleksyon 2016, GMA News and Public Affairs takes a closer look at the candidates seeking the country’s highest government position through its specialWanted: President.

Barbie Forteza and Andre Paras topbill GMA’s newest primetime series That’s My Amboy

After the success of Barbie Forteza and Andre Paras’ tandem in the recently concluded top-rating afternoon series The Half Sisters, their onscreen love team returns as Maria Rosario “Maru” Carreonand Bryan Ford in That’s My Amboy.

The Half Sisters airs final episode on January 18

The much-awaited ending of GMA 7’s longest-running and top-rating afternoon series The Half Sisters will air January 18 on GMA’s flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV.

The series brought laughter and tears to audiences worldwide while dominating on its timeslot with high TV ratings. And due to the clamour of viewers, it was rewarded with several extensions and continues to remain at the top of its game for more than a year and eight months since it premiered last June 2014.

GMA Network offers intriguing and compelling drama in WISH I MAY

GMA Network opens 2016 with the launch of its newest series, Wish I May, premiering January 18 on the Network’s flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV.

This fascinating soap opera stars the youngest love team of the Kapuso Network: Miguel Tanfelix and Bianca Umali. Both have come a long way since their respective showbiz debuts with Miguel finishing as a runner-up in the kiddie edition of Starstruck in 2004, and Bianca as one of the hosts of the children’s show Tropang Potchi from 2009 to 2013.

GMA Network statement on the passing of German “Kuya Germs” Moreno

GMA Network deeply mourns with the entire entertainment industry the passing of our beloved German 'Kuya Germs' Moreno.

The Master Showman will be greatly missed by his friends and fans both here and abroad, especially those in show business, where he devoted the best years of his life. Kuya Germs was responsible for building the careers of the biggest stars we now have.

The epitome of a loyal Kapuso, his dedication to the industry will serve as an inspiration to all. We pray for his eternal repose.

Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid renews her exclusive contract with GMA Network

Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid remains a loyal Kapuso as she signed today (January 4) another two-year exclusive contract with GMA Network, Inc.